Teddy Atlas thinks Oleksandr Usyk is unstoppable in heavyweight boxing right now. The former coach and boxing pundit recently named Usyk as 2024's Fighter of the Year on his podcast 'The Fight'.
Usyk's had an incredible year. In May, he beat Tyson Fury to become the undisputed world heavyweight champion. He did this just six years after dominating the cruiserweight division. Then, in late December, he defended three of his four world titles in a rematch with Fury. Usyk controlled the fight, setting a high tempo and landing more clean shots.
Atlas can't see anyone beating Usyk anytime soon. On his podcast, he said:
"Who is on the horizon to beat Usyk? The same guy that's been on the horizon to beat all the greats. Father time. The same guy who is just laying in wait, whether your name is Ali, Louis, Usyk, just waiting for that chance to get in that space with you. Father time, the only undefeated fighter."
Usyk turns 38 this month, but he's showing no signs of slowing down. He's much smaller than Tyson Fury, but that hasn't stopped him from dominating. Atlas points out that Usyk has always lived a clean lifestyle, which might be helping him stay at the top of his game.
Fans are now hoping for a rematch with Daniel Dubois. Dubois stormed into the ring after Usyk's recent win over Fury, demanding a fight. If it happens, Usyk could regain the IBF belt and become the undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time.
Usyk's rise from cruiserweight to heavyweight dominance in just six years is remarkable. He's challenging the idea that bigger is always better in heavyweight boxing. But as Atlas points out, Father Time is the one opponent no boxer can avoid forever. For now, though, Usyk reigns supreme.
